[Red-Leg]

All,

I just picked up an '89 EX500 that has been sitting for six years. Obviously, I'll be needing new tires as a part of my work in getting it back on the road.

I've been having a very difficult time finding skins in the OEM spec sizes (100/90-16 & 120/90-16).

What are you guys running on your A Series bikes?

Thanks!

Darren

 

[MrSciTrek]

Better tires are a common & worthy concern.
Just go to the Forum called "Suspension,Tires & Chassis," scan for a Topic that sounds right & start reading. You pick up a lot of interesting tips from people's experiences.

There's some trade off between better cornering and tire wear. So analyze what type of riding you'll be doing, on what kind of roads (or track), in what kind of weather & traffic. Then as you read the postings you'll know which ideas best apply to your needs/goals.

 

[Red-Leg]

I'm less concerned about brand/model than I am about size. The threads I've managed to find regarding tire size seem to focus on the 17" rims of the newer models.

Scratch that - I just found a thread recommending a 110 front and 130 rear. I guess that's what I'll work with.

Thanks!
Darren

 

[bitzz]

Actually if you are running an '89 with 16" rims you should be paying strict attention to brands as there are FEW brands that make a decent 16" tire.
Michelin makes a couple of radials, Avon makes the AM23 rear, AM21 front and there are Bridgestone BT45s. If you can find Metzlers they will be old stock and dry.
I like the Avons, but they don't last and they are EXPENSIVE.

 

[gsjack]

The Pirelli Demons, Metzeler Lasertecs, and new Avon Roadriders as well as the BT45's all come in the 110/90/16 and 130/90/16 sizes. These are the sizes recommended by Metz and Pirelli in their fitment guide for pre 94 EX500's. Can't find much better choices than these.

The Roadriders are the least expensive of the lot.

 

[jamesky780]

Ive got a 2nd gen and just put on Avons and love them. Ive heard others with gen1's with Avons and they like them. My local bike shop had the rear for $156 but was willing to negotiate and got it for $135. I couldve got cheaper online but dont mind paying a little extra to support local business and the ability to gripe at someone face to face if I have an issue.